Showing papers on "Green logistics published in 2011"

Diffusion of green supply chain management: Examining perceived quality of green reverse logistics

Abstract: Purpose – Extant research has yielded conflicting results regarding the relationship between adoption of green supply chain management (GSCM) practices and competitive advantage. The purpose of this paper is to further investigate this relationship by examining the case of green reverse logistics (GRL).Design/methodology/approach – Through the lens of diffusion of innovation and resource‐advantage theory, the authors examine whether or not consumers perceive products made via GRL practices to be equivalent to brand‐new products in terms of quality. A survey method is used to gather data from a diverse sample of 533 participants. Data are analyzed via ANOVA to test the hypotheses.Findings – The findings suggest that consumers perceive products made via some GRL practices to be inferior to brand‐new products in terms of quality. However, participants indicated no perceived quality difference between products made with recycled materials and brand‐new products.Research limitations/implications – The findings...

Benchmarking green logistics performance with a composite index

Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to discuss the development and use of a green logistics performance index (GLPI) for easy comparison of performance among industries and countries It uses the survey data collected from the home electronic appliance industry in China and Japan as an example to demonstrate the index development process and compare the performance of green logistics (GL) practices between the two countries using the proposed indexDesign/methodology/approach – Two‐sample t‐test and one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to analyse the data collected from a questionnaire survey Principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to derive the weights from the survey data for the GLPIFindings – The findings reveal that the GLPI derived using PCA is robust and gives similar results as obtained through two‐sample t‐test and ANOVA of the dataset in the comparison of performance among firms and between countries in the studyResearch limitations/implications – This study lends insight into the use

Evaluating reverse logistics programs: a suggested process formalization

Abstract: Purpose – Suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers alike are still considering reverse logistics (RL) to be the “necessary evil” in their day‐to‐day operations rather than an opportunity for future performance. At the same time, a well‐structured RL program can create a substantial value‐added and positively affect the bottom‐line. Based on in‐depth investigation of best‐in‐class RL programs implemented in practice, the purpose of this paper is to offer a grounded flow charting approach for assessing the state of program development and, potentially, identifying areas for improvement across different companies in various industries.Design/methodology/approach – The current study utilizes rich qualitative research methodology based on the combination between a thorough review of existing literature and multiple field studies. The findings from existing research, semi‐structured interviews and observation at companies’ sites, and RL‐related documentation at those companies, provide the backbone ...

Benchmarking supply chain sustainability: insights from a field study

Abstract: Purpose – Given the relevance of supply chain sustainability, the aim of the present paper is threefold: first, to investigate the strategies currently undertaken by companies in the supply chain sustainability arena, and, second, to find out which phase of the supply chain is at the forefront in the implementation of initiatives towards more sustainable supply chains. Finally, the criteria commonly used for priority‐setting amongst different initiatives within the same supply chain phase are identified.Design/methodology/approach – A three‐pronged methodology was adopted. First, a framework was developed to identify the initiatives towards supply chain sustainability. Second, the framework was applied to a set of multinational companies by examining their environmental reporting, thus to assess the adoption of each initiative. Third, a further in‐depth investigation of three companies was finally performed in order to provide additional insights on the obtained results.Findings – The research offers a be...

Green Supply Chain Management: Product Life Cycle Approach

Abstract: Part 1: Basic Concepts and Background Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 2 Mathematical Background Part 2: Green Engineering Technology Chapter 3 Green Engineering Chapter 4 Green Materials Chapter 5 Environmental Design Part 3: Green Value Chain Management Chapter 6 Green Procurement: Vendor Selection with Risk Analysis Chapter 7 Green Production: Manufacture and Remanufacture in Certain and Uncertain Environments Chapter 8 Green Logistics: Recycling with Certain and Uncertain Situations Chapter 9 Green Customers: Features and Identification Chapter 10 End-of-Life Management: Disassembly and Reuse Part 4: Green Information Management Systems Chapter 11 Database for Life Cycle Assessment: Procedure with Database Chapter 12 Web-Based Information Support Systems Index

Operations Research for Green Logistics – An Overview of Aspects, Issues, Contributions and Challenges

Abstract: textThe worldwide economic growth of the last century has given rise to a vast consumption of goods while globalization has led to large streams of goods all over the world. The production, transportation, storage and consumption of all these goods, however, have created large environmental problems. Today, global warming, created by large scale emissions of greenhouse gasses, is a top environmental concern. Governments, action groups and companies are asking for measures to counter this threat. Operations research has a long tradition in improving operations and especially in reducing costs. In this paper, we present a review that highlights the contribution of operations research to green logistics, which involves the integration of environmental aspects in logistics. We give a sketch of the present and possible developments, focussing on design, planning and control in a supply chain for transportation, inventory of products and facility decisions. While doing this, we also indicate several areas where environmental aspects could be included in OR models for logistics.

Measuring supply chain efficiency from a green perspective

Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to examine whether some countries achieve logistics efficiency at the cost of undermining environmental quality. In so doing, a hybrid index, the green logistics performance index (GLPI) combining both the LPI and the environmental performance index (EPI), is constructed.Design/methodology/approach – Being a macro analysis measuring the green supply chain efficiency of a country, this paper utilizes the secondary data compiled by the World Bank and the World Economic Forum. A series of simple regression analyses were conducted in order to find out the varying degrees of association between the LPI, the EPI, the GLPI and the national income level.Findings – As active logistics activities can have an impact on carbon footprints such as greenhouse gas emissions, it was found that some countries chose to increase their income level at the expense of the environment degradation. Consequently, the GLPI is suggested as a good indicator of a country's green logistics efficiency, showing ...

Green Logistics: Global Practices and their Implementation in Emerging Markets

Abstract: This chapter presents a global overview of green logistics practices at various management levels and the inherent challenges of their implementation in emerging markets. It begins by clarifying the terminology and describing its scope and characteristics, and it continues with an analysis of the impact of green logistics on the creation of economic and social value.

Shippers’ ecological buying behaviour towards logistics services in France

Abstract: The research reported in this paper examines the buying behaviour of shippers in France in respect of their purchasing of logistics services, and in particular their attitudes towards purchasing more ecologically sound services We have conducted empirical measurements of the gap between shippers’ declared willingness to purchase ecologically sound services and their actual buying behaviour regarding offers of logistics services, and have proposed a research model to explain this gap This research is a significant extension of earlier pilot study work in the French Picardy region, such that the study area now covers 4 regions, representing approximately 64% of the demand for logistics services in France Based upon 172 valid survey responses received, the statistical testing of our explanatory research model has revealed three main antecedents of ecological buying behaviour: perceived compatibility between the quality levels of ecological logistics services available and traditional logistics services; t

Efficiency of the modal shift and environmental policy on the Korean railroad

Abstract: The Kyoto Protocol calls for industrialized nations to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 5% from 1990 levels by 2008–2012, so developed countries are presenting various policies to reduce greenhouse gas that is produced in transport fields. One of those polices is a modal shift that changes from road freight to sea, inland waterways and railroad transportation that is eco-friendly. The increase of road freight brings road congestion, accidents, logistic costs, air pollution and greenhouse gases. Railroads are superior to the other modes of transportation in mass transportability, high speed, timeliness, safety and environmental-friendliness, but the railway industry has been pushed behind in competition. Korean railroads were used by passengers and for freight transport popularly until the middle of the 20th century. However, because of the sudden change of logistics environments, having time efficiency being most important, railroads lost logistic competitive power against the transportation by truck. This paper intends to examine the modal shift to railroad transportation, which enjoys high interest as environmentally-friendly logistics, i.e., the modal shift strategy. Efficiency analysis is conducted using DEA and exploratory factors are identified for the modal shift of the companies. This paper also proposes an alternative plan for green logistics and environmentally-friendly logistics, by analyzing the characteristics of the railroad cargo transportation system and the conditions of local railroad cargo transportation.

Green Logistics in Temporary Organizations: A Paradox? Learnings from the Humanitarian Context

Abstract: It has been argued that long-term environmental initiatives make organizations more efficient because they strive to reduce resource use in various ways. In temporary organizations, however, objectives are shortterm and are prioritized over other long-term considerations. Thus, how can “green logistics” be incorporated into temporary organizations without compromising short-term objectives? By combining the literature on temporary and permanent supply networks and green logistics in the humanitarian context, findings show that five main gaps between green logistics and disaster relief can be reduced by the application of a permanent-temporary approach. Further research is suggested for its application in other temporary contexts.

Does proactive green logistics management improve business performance? A case of Chinese logistics enterprises

Abstract: Sustainability is a subject of growing interest in business and environmental management. Many previous studies have emphasized the trade-off between economic activities such as manufacturing and its effect on the environment. Moreover, previous studies have mainly focused on manufacturing enterprises; however, no study has yet to cover the logistics sector. This study fills these gaps by testing the causal relationship between proactive green management and the sustainable performance of logistics enterprise in China. In addition, when compared with previous literature that discusses the partial relationship between environmental variables and firm performance, this study synthesizes the factors of green awareness and green strategy that may influence green logistics management in a total systematic structural equation model (SEM). SEM has an advantage in examining the causal relationship between green logistics practice and its business performance. The result shows that green logistics practice has a positive impact on sustainable business performance. This impact is composed of both a positive financial and environmental performance, while the relationship between green awareness and business performance and the influence of green strategy on business performance is not significant. Keywords: Green logistics management, structural equation model (SEM), business performance, Chinese logistics enterprises.

IT-for-Green: Next Generation CEMIS for Environmental, Energy and Resource Management

Abstract: Contemporary CEMIS do not cope with requirements from the sustainability discussion. At the time of re porting environmental performance, it is too late to set the right course. Without an early identification of ca use and effect to anticipate environmental impacts of decisions for t imely intervention, potentials for acting precautio us remain unemployed. A resource-friendly design of processes and their controlling demands for sustainability orien ted organizational structures. The methodical view is often neg lected. Innovative solutions are in demand. This ve rsatile task may not be accomplished by science alone. Thus, the ert emis network ( http://www.ertemis.eu ) supports a new project to further the development of next generation CEMIS. I ntegrated modules will map the whole product life c ycle from input (energy efficiency), transformation processes (production and green logistics) up to the output side (communication and reporting). In this paper, we introduce the IT-for-Green project (http://www.it-for-green.eu ) and give an overview of the modules and the objectives we want to achieve.

Sustainable go-green logistics solutions for Istanbul metropolis

Abstract: Summary. Nowadays CO 2 emissions have exponentially increased over the last decade due to cities development and population growth. Logistics has a major impact, mainly negative, on the environment degradation. In this paper we focus on innovative “green” logistics solutions, which can be applied at the big city level, in economic and population expansion (emerging metropolis). That scope is to reduce simultaneously pollution and traffic congestion in agglomerated area. As an example we use a DHL Business Plan for Istanbul, aiming to implement a non or little-polluting transport mode (by land and by -sea) and estimative cost calculation that will be incurred by this challenging task. The final result of the research reveals that, although we expect to have higher cost for such a non polluting challenge, on the long run, the benefits of a durable go-green policy has higher impact in terms of money savings, environment protection and next generation life standards. As the output is positive, these results can be successfully applied to other cities or large very populated area, but analysis is needed to figure out which combination of schemes fitted for a particular location.

Benchmarking green logistics performance using a composite index

Abstract: Purpose - This paper aims to discuss the development and use of a green logistics performance index (GLPI) for easy comparison of performance among industries and countries. It uses the survey data collected from the home electronic appliance industry in China and Japan as an example to demonstrate the index development process and compare the performance of green logistics (GL) practices between the two countries using the proposed index.

Returnable plastic packaging flow in the automotive industry - an evaluation of the washing from a green logistics’ perspective

Abstract: In this thesis, companies using returnable plastic packaging are investigated from a green logistics’ perspective, focusing on the washing process performed after they are used. Returnable plastic boxes used to carry components are, in some cases, washed systematically to secure customer requirements. The purpose of this master thesis is to describe existing flows of returnable plastic boxes by investigating customer requirements on cleanliness of the boxes and to evaluate the activities within their supply chain as well to assess the environmental impact related to the washing. A case company in the automotive industry was involved in this thesis, and their supply chain of returnable boxes was the main source of information. The research methodology utilised in this study consisted of semi-structure interviews with different actors related to the supply chain of the boxes. Other companies using returnable boxes were also investigated as point of reference. The empirical findings was analysed by using a Lean approach, performing a Material Flow Mapping (MFM) at one washing terminal in Sweden and a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) at four washing terminals in Europe. The MFM result showed that the lead-time inside the washing terminal for one box was approximately 12 days and that only 4 min was dedicated to the washing or the relative “value added time”. The LCA showed that the washing of one box contributes on average to 50 g of CO2 emissions and consumes 0,24 kWh of electricity and 0,7 litres of water. The results revealed that the washing stands for high environmental impact during the life cycle of a box. The main reasons for companies to perform systematic washing were identified and were evaluated to some extent i.e. some of the attached identification labels are difficult to remove by hand. Sorting has been identified as the only way to avoid systematic washing. Potential set-ups of supply chain have been identified, if deciding to sort clean/dirty boxes and specific guidelines are needed for the different set-ups. The principal conclusion was that by eliminating the unnecessary washing of returnable plastic boxes, related activities to the washing process itself could be reduced but new activities like manual sorting may occur. Other conclusions are that the design parameters of the boxes are key factors that determine the relative definition of the level of cleanliness, the logistic terminals are not just useful for the washing but important consolidating points and to offer the same type of services to different customers does not guaranty customer’s satisfaction. Recommendations to the case company are to look further into sorting set-ups of their supply chains, standardize the labels’ specifications, and try to differentiate the solutions regarding customer requirements by looking into different alternatives i.e. disposable boxes.

Impacts of Globalization on Green Logistics Centers in Lithuania

Abstract: This paper is a theoretical analysis, opening with the introduction where the problem of the research, the object of the research, the purpose of the research and the research methods are described. The analysis has revealed that the market situation, logistics service providers face today, differs a lot from the situation years ago. Globalization as a process is lightening supply lines, thereby increasing the freight transport intensity of the world economy. Lithuania is geographically good situated, therefore there are great possibilities to integrate into the European trade community, the efficient system of logistics centers is necessary. Climate change is likely to become a major business driver over the next few decades as companies come under intense pressure to decrease the pollution to nature. The main object of this article is the impacts of globalization on green logistics centers in Lithuania. The principal purpose of the article is systemization and thorough description of the knowledge and information (found in a large number of sources) about the economic globalization concept, green logistics, logistics centers and to present a coherent overview on such aspects of logistics as: the importance of green logistics, supply chain management and collaborative logistics.

Influence of Green Logistics Strategies on Reducing Supply Chain Management Costs in Croatia

Abstract: The trend and globalization imposed the implementation of different environmentally conscious activities into existing logistics systems. These activities are the result of the need for a perfectly closed supply chain. When implementing reverse logistics activities into existing logistics system, one will expect to improve customer satisfaction (to have bonded and returned loyal consumers), to raise level of environmental concience (as a matter of thinking and a marketing strategy on competitive global market), to keep profit inside company (by reducing costs) and to keep up with new law regulations. Besides reverse logistics, when observing from higher perspective, one can define reducing logistics costs by organising a better and upgradable green logistics. A quality system asks a producer of the product to take care of it during whole its life cycle and that is the place where standards for environmental management play an important role.

A Study on the Calculation of $CO_2$ Emission and Road Freight Environmental Index for Logistics Companies

Abstract: In order to reduce Green House Gas(GHG) reduction in the road freight sector and thus establish green logistics, running efficiency of goods vehicles is of paramount importance. Providing effective transportation infrastructure can contribute to achieve the green logistics by reducing empty running of heavy goods vehicles and van, increasing the average payload on the vehicle, and shifting the transportation mode. In order to reduce the environmental impact from the road freight sector, it is essential to quantify the amount of environmental loading from the sector. However, any systematic survey on the environmental loading from the logistics companies has not been carried out in Korea. In this study, the environmental index for the road freight sector is defined as the amount of emission per ton km generated from goods vehicles. The computational analysis shows that the average emission per ton km generated by the logistics companies in Korea is . Compared to UK (=) and France (=), the efficiency of logistics in Korea is 2.8 and 3.7 times as low as in the advanced countries. It also indicates that the main reasons for the low efficiency are mainly due to the high rate of empty operation of goods vehicles and the low payload.

Green logistics - a solar warehouse concept

Abstract: Transportation and logistics are responsible for climate change as they produce greenhouse gases and contribute to the increasing share of fossil fuels, such as oil, in global energy consumption. Supplying the required energy for the transport and logistics sector in an environment-friendly way (based on electric or hydrogen fuels) is one of the main challenges for mankind. Material handling processes have a significant energy demand in warehouse operations, and the application of electricity-driven vehicles and equipment is widely accepted. With the effective use of available green electricity sources - like photovoltaic and wind energy - in the warehouse, we could provide energy for these operations. This article, based on laboratory data, describes a solar-warehouse concept and analyzes the critical parameters, such as energy demand of processes and vehicles, the characteristics of consumption and production, the alternative solutions of electricity storage and fast-charging.

Logistics Decision Model for Environmental Aspect using the Analytic Network Process

Abstract: Green supply chain management has appeared as an essential strategy for enhancing environmental performance of processes, structures, and products accordingly to address regulatory and competitive forces. Korean firms lag in green logistics activities relative to ‘green’ leading companies in advanced countries. Thus, few papers have identified and investigated green supply chain systems within South Korea. To further understand how some Korean firms may wish to further develop green logistics and supply chain practices, this paper explores a decision making framework of Green Logistics by using ANP (analytic network process). We derived 5 clusters and 21 components forming the strategic green logistics, and then conducted surveys for pairwise comparison of experts on Green Logistics in Korean firms, and computed relative weights of the clusters. Our findings indicate that Green Logistics would be very helpful for managers to adjust their strategic decisions for green supply chain management. The technique proposed in this paper may be generalized to other countries with the framework developed not unique to just Korean industry.

Green logistics research based on sustainable development

Abstract: At present, there are still many problems in the development of green logistics in China, which is attributed to the lack of theoretical research and the backward concepts of our government, enterprises, consumers and the public. This paper starts from the theory basis of green logistics, discusses the connotation of green logistics and its influence to sustainable development, gives particular analysis on the situation of green logistics in China from the government, enterprises and consumers' stand, and finally draws a conclusion that the development of green logistics needs government's leading, enterprises' participating, consumers' participation and intendance, and scholars' theoretical support, etc.

A contribution to Sustainable Logistics and Supply Chain - conceptual design to evaluate ecological and economical cause-effect relations in logistics planning processes

Abstract: In the recent years environmental protection is getting to the top of the agenda in politics, society and customer behaviour. In literature the basic principles of sustainability are known for a long time. Nevertheless, actual research does not cover adequately the practical facets of ecological sustainability in logistics. Our objective is to present an integrated view on ecological footprint analysis and decision-making. Starting with an exploratory empirical survey study the actual objectives, challenges and developments of ecological sustainability in logistics were identified. Based on a brief literature review a blueprint of the methodology was developed. In an action research approach this concept was prototypical used for the calculation of current emissions of major logistics process configurations and the development of improvement possibilities out of the calculation results.

Green Logistics Management

Abstract: Nowadays, environmental management becomes a critical business consideration for companies to survive from many regulations and tough business requirements Most of world-leading companies are now aware that environment friendly technology and management are critical to the sustainable growth of the company The environment market has seen continuous growth marking $532B in 2000, and $590B in 2004 This growth rate is expected to grow to $700B in 2010 It is not hard to see the environment-friendly efforts in almost all aspects of business operations Such trends can be easily found in logistics area Green logistics aims to make environmental friendly decisions throughout a product lifecycle Therefore for the success of green logistics, it is critical to have real time tracking capability on the product throughout the product lifecycle and smart solution service architecture In this chapter, we introduce an RFID based green logistics solution and service